A law, enacted in 1886, forbids clearing along waters adapted to fishing, and orders the leaving of seed trees or “providing otherwise for regeneration,” if more than 12 acres are cut at one time.
The method of utilizing the ground for combined forest and farm use, which is still frequently practised, was forbidden on the light sandy soils of the pineries, or was otherwise regulated. Forest fire laws are also on the statutes.
Propositions for further restrictions, made in 1891, were promptly rejected by the parliament.
Educational opportunities are offered in the Forest Institute at Evois, first established in 1862 as a result of v. Berg’s visit, and re-organized in 1874. It accepts new students only every second year for the two years’ course. It has had a precarious existence, being left sometimes without students, and is naturally not of a high grade, practical acquaintance with woodswork being its main aim.
Since 1876, a school for forest guards and private underforesters has been in existence, where 6 students are annually accepted for a two years’ course.
In addition there are two instructors provided by the government, wandering teachers who are to advise private owners. Premiums are paid for the best managed woodlots on the government farms.
The Finnish forestry association, which is in part of propagandist nature, was organized in 1877. It supplies, besides an annual report, other forestry literature, and employs an experienced planter to direct efforts at reforestation.
A forestry journal (quarterly) is also published, and a professional literature is beginning to start into existence.